Ever wonder what tools does a pipefitter need to perform their work successfully? You’re in the right place! That’s exactly what we’ll look at today.
Pipefitters are skilled tradespeople specializing in the installation and maintenance of piping that typically carries potentially harmful substances such as gases, chemicals, or gases in industrial, manufacturing, or commercial industries.
Since many pipefitters work in tight spaces, these professionals must have the dexterity to work with tools and materials that optimize precision. Learn more about what’s required for pipefitting training in Jacksonville, FL.
Many highly specialized tools are available to help pipefitters perform cleaner work. See how these 7 precision tools are used on the job site.
What tools do pipefitters use for precision?
Protractor
A pipefitter protractor looks like the ones you might have used in high school math class to measure angles. The heavy-duty pipefitter protractors used in the field aren’t much different.
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They’re primarily used to measure the squareness of a pipe or fitting in relation to another surface, or to set transfer angles and bevels. Many pipefitter protractors are equipped with two blades that can rotate around an axis to achieve the variety of angles necessary for pipefitting work.
Typically, pipefitters can lock these body members in at different angles from 0° to 180°.
Micrometers
Sometimes, pipefitters have to work with incredibly small measurements to optimize precision on their projects. A micrometer is a specialized measuring tool allowing for pinpoint accuracy when measuring small objects.
This precise tool can measure the thickness, length, and depth of pipes, depending on the work a pipefitter is doing. Pipefitters can use micrometers when dealing with tolerances smaller than 0.001-inches. Some micrometers come with handy dial gauges or digital readouts to make it easier for pipefitters to read the precise measurements quickly and accurately.
Centering Head
Whether working in tight spaces or in an area that’s not well lit, pipefitters won’t always have an easy time determining the center of a pipe. The circular shape of pipe faces also makes it difficult to locate center points. That’s where a centering head tool comes in handy.
Centering heads, also known as center finders, make it easy for pipefitters to identify the center of a pipe along with its top line and bottom line. With these markings, it’s easier to make accurate alignments when connecting pipes.
Calculator
Typically, pipefitter training programs cover mathematics so pipefitters enter the field with a good working knowledge of relevant equations, angles, and other important concepts.
When on the job, pipefitters use specialized, scientific calculators for precise and quick calculations. Some pipefitting calculators can determine slopes, angles, arcs, and other important measurements while taking into account the type of piping and material being used.
Wraparounds
The curved nature of pipes makes it incredibly difficult to make precise measurements with standard tools. Wraparounds solve this problem by allowing pipefitters to mark accurate lines around pipes when trying to improve alignments or make precise cuts. These compact tools pack quite a useful punch, making them an easy addition to even the most crammed pipefitter’s tool bag.
Torpedo Level
Another crucial tool for pipefitters is known as a torpedo level. These devices are perfect for tradespeople working in tight spaces because of their compact size.
Torpedo levels have various tubes full of liquid that help pipefitters determine the levelness of piping at different angles. A little bubble within the tubes of liquid centers in between two marks when it’s level. Some torpedo levels even come with magnetic attachments so pipefitters can conveniently attach the tool to a metal pipe no matter the angle for accurate measurements.
Hi-Lo Welding Gauge
When connecting pipes together, pipefitters need to use hi-lo gauges to determine internal alignment. This tool can be used while a pipefitter makes slight adjustments for precise fittings and joinings.
A hi-lo gauge can significantly cut down on time and financial losses resulting from inaccurate work that pipefitters must redo.
Learn More About Pipefitting Through Pipefitting Training Programs
Precision tools aren’t the only type of equipment pipefitters use on the job. For example, pipefitter measuring tools are also integral to the work these skilled tradespeople perform every day.
Eager to learn more about pipefitter tools and what it takes to become a successful pipefitter? Pipefitting training is an excellent place to start. Reach out to Tulsa Welding School today to learn more about our pipefitting and welding programs.
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